Mobile Application Development : Framework with key criteria for choosing native or cross-platform application development

Abstract: To develop mobile applications, developing companies can use different platforms. One approach is to use a native development environment targeting a specific operating system that gives access to all device functionalities. Another approach is to use a cross-platform development tool that allows developers to use a single code base targeting several operating systems, but often comes with limited standard features for accessing device functionalities. Each approach has its benefits and shortcomings. Multiple factors contribute to the selection of the developing platform. Thus, it is of big importance to use clearly defined criteria to make the decision that fits best the need of the final customer, but also that fits with the business and technological preconditions that the developing company can fulfil. Based on existing literature, and consolidating our takeaway with quantifiable, as well as additional business related criteria, this thesis work presents a framework to help decision makers in developing companies decide whether they will develop applications using a native or a cross-platform approach. A number of experienced professionals assessed the compiled list of criteria and attributed respective weight of each criterion in the framework. The decision makers in companies will use this framework, applying a formula, and thereafter calculating a score for each approach. The score will load then to determine whether to choose native or cross-platform development approach. The results show how we assign the final weight and, in the conclusion, we discuss limitations and future research directions for research.